James O'Connor has returned to a Wallabies squad almost three years after his last test when the veteran flyhalf was included to face the British and Irish Lions in the first test on July 19 in Brisbane.

Veteran playmaker James O'Connor was included Friday in Australia's squad to face the British and Irish Lions, adding a wealth of experience to a Wallabies side with a mountain to climb. He joins prop James Slipper in a 36-man squad for three Tests starting on July 19 in Brisbane as the only two players to have faced the combined might of England,

James O’Connor wasn’t answering his phone calls, and the Wallabies squad for the British & Irish Lions series was to be announced in an hour. As Australia’s coach dialled the number again from the team’s hotel lobby, he received a tap on the shoulder from James Slipper. “The bloke you’re after is outside,” Slipper revealed.